Princes William and Harry may be masters of pomp and ceremony, but they still know how to play it cool at the Concert for Diana's celebrity-packed after-show party.
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LIVERPOOL ANNOUNCE TWO NEW SIGNINGS
Thursday, 23rd August 2007
Liverpool bolstered their sqaud today with two new signings.
The two new players arriving at Anfield are Spanish defender Mikel San Jose, who has signed on a three year deal from Athletic Bilbao and Hungarian shotstopper Peter Gulacsi who has also signed a three year deal.
Galacsi is beleived to have cost the club £270,000.
Both players are expcted to play in The Reds reserve team this season.
Liverpool bolstered their sqaud today with two new signings.
The two new players arriving at Anfield are Spanish defender Mikel San Jose, who has signed on a three year deal from Athletic Bilbao and Hungarian shotstopper Peter Gulacsi who has also signed a three year deal.
Galacsi is beleived to have cost the club £270,000.
Both players are expcted to play in The Reds reserve team this season.
Mikel San Jose
Peter Gulacsi
HEINZE AGREES REAL MADRID DEAL
Thursday, 23rd August 2007
After his hopes of becoming the first player to leave Manchester United for Liverpool in 43 years were scuppered, Gabriel Heinze has opted to tread a far more familiar path by agreeing a four-year deal with Real Madrid.
Providing he comes through his medical without a problem, Heinze will become the third United player in four seasons to join the Spanish giants, following on from David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The 29-year-old was still considering whether to appeal against the Premier League ruling that blocked him from joining Liverpool when Real made their move.
United accepted Madrid's offer almost immediately and Heinze quickly decided he would take it up, having already travelled to Spain for talks with the nine-times European Cup winners earlier in the summer.
The move will have come as a relief to the Red Devils, who knew Heinze's position at Old Trafford was untenable but remained resolute in their determination not to let him join Liverpool.
And, although the defender still wanted to explore the Liverpool option, he knew that by dragging the situation out even further his chances of moving out of England before the August 31 transfer deadline would effectively disappear.
In fact, so keen was Heinze to join Liverpool, an approach was made to Crystal Palace chief executive Phil Alexander for the player to join the Eagles before then being moved back up to Merseyside.
That plan never reached fruition, so instead a compromise has been found that will be suitable for everyone except Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez, who has been left with a bitter taste in his mouth.
"I would like to ask the Premier League a number of questions. How can a player with a signed agreement be treated like this?" Benitez told the Liverpool Echo.
"He has a document which is clear, but the Premier League prefers to believe the word of someone else who made a mistake. I know there were accusations made against Liverpool in the hearing which were unbelievable. How can this be allowed?"
And broadening his attack from the Heinze issue, Benitez said:
"Then I would like to ask the Premier League why is it that Liverpool always plays the most fixtures away from home in an early kick-off, following an international break?
"We had more than the top clubs last season and we have four already to prepare for this season."
He then - somewhat strangely given the story dominated the news agenda for most of the close season - claims it was "so easy" for United to sign Tevez.
Benitez added: "Then I want to ask the Premier League why it was so difficult for Liverpool to sign Javier Mascherano, when we had to wait a long time for the paperwork, but it was so easy for Carlos Tevez to join Manchester United?
"It's going to be very difficult for us to win the Premier League because the other teams are so strong, but I want our supporters to know that despite the disadvantages we have, we will fight all the way.
"We will fight to cope with our more difficult kick-off times and all the other decisions which are going against us."
After his hopes of becoming the first player to leave Manchester United for Liverpool in 43 years were scuppered, Gabriel Heinze has opted to tread a far more familiar path by agreeing a four-year deal with Real Madrid.
Providing he comes through his medical without a problem, Heinze will become the third United player in four seasons to join the Spanish giants, following on from David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy.
The 29-year-old was still considering whether to appeal against the Premier League ruling that blocked him from joining Liverpool when Real made their move.
United accepted Madrid's offer almost immediately and Heinze quickly decided he would take it up, having already travelled to Spain for talks with the nine-times European Cup winners earlier in the summer.
The move will have come as a relief to the Red Devils, who knew Heinze's position at Old Trafford was untenable but remained resolute in their determination not to let him join Liverpool.
And, although the defender still wanted to explore the Liverpool option, he knew that by dragging the situation out even further his chances of moving out of England before the August 31 transfer deadline would effectively disappear.
In fact, so keen was Heinze to join Liverpool, an approach was made to Crystal Palace chief executive Phil Alexander for the player to join the Eagles before then being moved back up to Merseyside.
That plan never reached fruition, so instead a compromise has been found that will be suitable for everyone except Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez, who has been left with a bitter taste in his mouth.
"I would like to ask the Premier League a number of questions. How can a player with a signed agreement be treated like this?" Benitez told the Liverpool Echo.
"He has a document which is clear, but the Premier League prefers to believe the word of someone else who made a mistake. I know there were accusations made against Liverpool in the hearing which were unbelievable. How can this be allowed?"
And broadening his attack from the Heinze issue, Benitez said:
"Then I would like to ask the Premier League why is it that Liverpool always plays the most fixtures away from home in an early kick-off, following an international break?
"We had more than the top clubs last season and we have four already to prepare for this season."
He then - somewhat strangely given the story dominated the news agenda for most of the close season - claims it was "so easy" for United to sign Tevez.
Benitez added: "Then I want to ask the Premier League why it was so difficult for Liverpool to sign Javier Mascherano, when we had to wait a long time for the paperwork, but it was so easy for Carlos Tevez to join Manchester United?
"It's going to be very difficult for us to win the Premier League because the other teams are so strong, but I want our supporters to know that despite the disadvantages we have, we will fight all the way.
"We will fight to cope with our more difficult kick-off times and all the other decisions which are going against us."
MAUREEN BACKS IDIOT REF
Monday, 20th August 2007
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has claimed Rob Syles was right to award his team a penalty.
The referee awarded Chelsea a penalty when their midfielder Florent Malouda fouled Steve Finnan yesterday. It was a decision that was predictably applauded by Mourinho.
"I think I have a naive team, because we don't have divers, don't have violent people, nasty tackles and don't have people diving into swimming pools. Chelsea are a pure and naive team," said the prick.
"If that's the case, I'm Little Red Riding Hood," responded Rafael Benitez.
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has claimed Rob Syles was right to award his team a penalty.
The referee awarded Chelsea a penalty when their midfielder Florent Malouda fouled Steve Finnan yesterday. It was a decision that was predictably applauded by Mourinho.
"I think I have a naive team, because we don't have divers, don't have violent people, nasty tackles and don't have people diving into swimming pools. Chelsea are a pure and naive team," said the prick.
"If that's the case, I'm Little Red Riding Hood," responded Rafael Benitez.
LIVERPOOL "ROBBED 'N' STYLE" IN BROAD DAYLIGHT!
Sunday, 20th August 2007
REFEREE Rob Styles has handed Chelsea a controversial, second-half penalty to earn a 1-1 English Premier League draw with Liverpool at Anfield.
Fernando Torres marked his first Anfield appearance with an impressive goal for Liverpool, but Styles harshly judged that Steve Finnan had pushed over Florent Malouda as he attempted to meet Shaun Wright-Phillips' 61st minute cross.
Frank Lampard needed no second invitation to convincingly equalise from the spot.
To add to Styles' unpopularity, in the eyes of Liverpool fans, he also appeared to book Chelsea midfield player Michael Essien for a second time midway through the second half without brandishing the red card that should have automatically followed.
Under the watchful eye of England manager Steve McClaren, Steven Gerrard made light of the fractured toe that will almost certainly exclude him from playing for his country against Germany on Thursday (AEST), by setting up Torres' debut goal in the 16th minute.
The Liverpool captain gathered Xabi Alonso's tidy header and sent Torres chasing away down the right with a superb pass. It still appeared that Chelsea defender Tal Ben-Haim would deal with the danger, but the Spaniard showed an electrifying example of his pace and power to surge away from his marker and beat Peter Cech with a perfect right-foot finish.
The game had already been nicely set up by Manchester United's early afternoon defeat at Manchester City, a result greeted pre-match with great enthusiasm by both sets of supporters.
The early goal merely served to add to the intensity of a fixture that has become one of the set-piece occasions in the English football calendar.
After going a goal behind, Chelsea's midfield began to exert a degree of control.
Alonso's foul on Malouda gave Liverpool an anxious moment at the midway point of the first half, but Didier Drogba's free kick was deflected harmlessly behind.
Salomon Kalou appeared to have a superb shooting opportunity but took one touch too many and was halted by Gerrard's superb sliding tackle, and Wright-Phillips sped past Alvaro Arbeloa a little too easily for comfort before his cross was headed over by Drogba.
For the third time in as many games this season, Chelsea found itself a goal down but its spirited fightback raised the temperature of the contest yet further.
Styles did little to endear himself to the Anfield faithful as he yellow-carded Kuyt, Jermaine Pennant and Gerrard in quick succession, the Liverpool trio joining Essien and, later, Ashley Cole, Lampard and John Terry in the book.
Chelsea's improved play continued after the restart, Lampard's early corner being flicked on by substitute Claudio Pizarro for John Obi Mikel, whose far post header flew over the bar, before another dangerous right-wing, Wright-Phillips run ended with a centre which Pizarro, reaching at full stretch, could only head wide.
At the other end, Liverpool was slowly stringing together some more promising moves, with Pennant reaching the by-line just before the hour and picking out Alonso on the edge of the area, only for the Spaniard to send his strike disappointingly off target.
The penalty altered the complexion of the game with Chelsea, possibly, content to settle for a valuable away point.
It might not have emerged with that had Riise's spectacular volley, from Pennant's 67th minute pull-back, found its mark.
The last chances of an entertaining game fell to Kuyt, who rose to meet Finnan's right-wing cross but steered his effort inches over the crossbar, and substitute Ryan Babel, who unleashed a ferocious long-range drive into the side-netting.
Agence France-Presse
REFEREE Rob Styles has handed Chelsea a controversial, second-half penalty to earn a 1-1 English Premier League draw with Liverpool at Anfield.
Fernando Torres marked his first Anfield appearance with an impressive goal for Liverpool, but Styles harshly judged that Steve Finnan had pushed over Florent Malouda as he attempted to meet Shaun Wright-Phillips' 61st minute cross.
Frank Lampard needed no second invitation to convincingly equalise from the spot.
To add to Styles' unpopularity, in the eyes of Liverpool fans, he also appeared to book Chelsea midfield player Michael Essien for a second time midway through the second half without brandishing the red card that should have automatically followed.
Under the watchful eye of England manager Steve McClaren, Steven Gerrard made light of the fractured toe that will almost certainly exclude him from playing for his country against Germany on Thursday (AEST), by setting up Torres' debut goal in the 16th minute.
The Liverpool captain gathered Xabi Alonso's tidy header and sent Torres chasing away down the right with a superb pass. It still appeared that Chelsea defender Tal Ben-Haim would deal with the danger, but the Spaniard showed an electrifying example of his pace and power to surge away from his marker and beat Peter Cech with a perfect right-foot finish.
The game had already been nicely set up by Manchester United's early afternoon defeat at Manchester City, a result greeted pre-match with great enthusiasm by both sets of supporters.
The early goal merely served to add to the intensity of a fixture that has become one of the set-piece occasions in the English football calendar.
After going a goal behind, Chelsea's midfield began to exert a degree of control.
Alonso's foul on Malouda gave Liverpool an anxious moment at the midway point of the first half, but Didier Drogba's free kick was deflected harmlessly behind.
Salomon Kalou appeared to have a superb shooting opportunity but took one touch too many and was halted by Gerrard's superb sliding tackle, and Wright-Phillips sped past Alvaro Arbeloa a little too easily for comfort before his cross was headed over by Drogba.
For the third time in as many games this season, Chelsea found itself a goal down but its spirited fightback raised the temperature of the contest yet further.
Styles did little to endear himself to the Anfield faithful as he yellow-carded Kuyt, Jermaine Pennant and Gerrard in quick succession, the Liverpool trio joining Essien and, later, Ashley Cole, Lampard and John Terry in the book.
Chelsea's improved play continued after the restart, Lampard's early corner being flicked on by substitute Claudio Pizarro for John Obi Mikel, whose far post header flew over the bar, before another dangerous right-wing, Wright-Phillips run ended with a centre which Pizarro, reaching at full stretch, could only head wide.
At the other end, Liverpool was slowly stringing together some more promising moves, with Pennant reaching the by-line just before the hour and picking out Alonso on the edge of the area, only for the Spaniard to send his strike disappointingly off target.
The penalty altered the complexion of the game with Chelsea, possibly, content to settle for a valuable away point.
It might not have emerged with that had Riise's spectacular volley, from Pennant's 67th minute pull-back, found its mark.
The last chances of an entertaining game fell to Kuyt, who rose to meet Finnan's right-wing cross but steered his effort inches over the crossbar, and substitute Ryan Babel, who unleashed a ferocious long-range drive into the side-netting.
Agence France-Presse
CONFIDENCE HIGH IN REDS CAMP
Friday, 17th August 2007
Rafa Benitez says Liverpool are confident they can beat Chelsea on Sunday, but he insists the season does not rest on the result.
The Reds will be looking to make it two wins out of two with victory over Jose Mourinho's side at Anfield and Benitez admitted there is confidence in his camp ahead of the big clash.
"We have confidence because we know we can beat them," he said in his weekly press conference on Thursday."Winning against Aston Villa, I said we shouldn't get carried away. Now, this is just the second game. It is important to win, and especially against a top side because it sends a message, but it's just one game."I will be pleased if I see the team progressing. If we win as well, that's better. But if you want to be a real contender, it's not just about winning one game - you need to win many," he added.
Steven Gerrard is set to play despite suffering a hairline fracture in his toe in the win over Toulouse on Wednesday, while Benitez is again expected to make several changes to his side.
Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt, Daniel Agger and Jermaine Pennant are all pushing for a return while Andriy Voronin will be hoping he keeps his place following his impressive winner in France.
Rafa Benitez says Liverpool are confident they can beat Chelsea on Sunday, but he insists the season does not rest on the result.
The Reds will be looking to make it two wins out of two with victory over Jose Mourinho's side at Anfield and Benitez admitted there is confidence in his camp ahead of the big clash.
"We have confidence because we know we can beat them," he said in his weekly press conference on Thursday."Winning against Aston Villa, I said we shouldn't get carried away. Now, this is just the second game. It is important to win, and especially against a top side because it sends a message, but it's just one game."I will be pleased if I see the team progressing. If we win as well, that's better. But if you want to be a real contender, it's not just about winning one game - you need to win many," he added.
Steven Gerrard is set to play despite suffering a hairline fracture in his toe in the win over Toulouse on Wednesday, while Benitez is again expected to make several changes to his side.
Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt, Daniel Agger and Jermaine Pennant are all pushing for a return while Andriy Voronin will be hoping he keeps his place following his impressive winner in France.
GERRARD TO PLAY WITH FRACTURED TOE
Thursday, 16th August 2007
LIVERPOOL, England: Steven Gerrard has suffered a hairline fracture in a toe bone but will play in Sunday's cruch match against Chelsea, Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said.
A scan yesterday revealed the Reds captain sustained the minor fracture during Wednesday's 1-0 win at Toulouse in the Champions League third qualifying round first leg.
Though he will be fit enough to play, the midfielder will probably have to sit out England's friendly with visitors Germany at Wembley next Wednesday.
"He has a hairline fracture in his toe," Benitez said. "I think he will be available for the weekend. The only problem is, if we push him now, he might need a little bit of a rest afterwards. "I was talking to the doctor and he said it is not a big risk for him to play, though there is always some risk."
The Reds boss said England's vice-captain might need a week or two of rest if he plays against Chelsea-meaning he will likely not feature against Germany.
"If we want to push him for this game, it would be a risk to push him again and again, because it could become more serious," the Spaniard said. "I still need to talk to (England manager) Steve McClaren but I think he will understand it would be a big risk."
McClaren has already lost one high-profile player to a hairline fracture: Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney suffered such a break in his left foot in Sunday's 0-0 draw at home to Reading and will be out for two months. (AFP)
LIVERPOOL, England: Steven Gerrard has suffered a hairline fracture in a toe bone but will play in Sunday's cruch match against Chelsea, Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez said.
A scan yesterday revealed the Reds captain sustained the minor fracture during Wednesday's 1-0 win at Toulouse in the Champions League third qualifying round first leg.
Though he will be fit enough to play, the midfielder will probably have to sit out England's friendly with visitors Germany at Wembley next Wednesday.
"He has a hairline fracture in his toe," Benitez said. "I think he will be available for the weekend. The only problem is, if we push him now, he might need a little bit of a rest afterwards. "I was talking to the doctor and he said it is not a big risk for him to play, though there is always some risk."
The Reds boss said England's vice-captain might need a week or two of rest if he plays against Chelsea-meaning he will likely not feature against Germany.
"If we want to push him for this game, it would be a risk to push him again and again, because it could become more serious," the Spaniard said. "I still need to talk to (England manager) Steve McClaren but I think he will understand it would be a big risk."
McClaren has already lost one high-profile player to a hairline fracture: Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney suffered such a break in his left foot in Sunday's 0-0 draw at home to Reading and will be out for two months. (AFP)
VORONIN SHOOTS LIVERPOOL TO VICTORY
Wednesday, 15th August 2007
Andriy Voronin's classy finish gave 2006/07 UEFA Champions League finalists Liverpool FC victory at Toulouse FC in the first leg of their third qualifying round tie.
Powerful shot
Voronin made his European debut for Liverpool after his summer transfer from Bayer 04 Leverkusen and just before half-time his powerful shot gave the five-time winners a lead to take back to Anfield on 28 August. Toulouse, on their UEFA Champions League bow, have a tough task on their hands if they are to win a two-legged European tie for only the second time.
Afternoon heat
With the game kicking off in the afternoon due to the Assumption Day holiday in France, the temperature was well over 30C and perhaps contributed to the fairly quiet opening. Steven Gerrard curled a free-kick just wide on three minutes with the ball only just eluding Voronin, but it was not until midway through the half that the next real chance arrived, Gerrard shooting over.
Voronin strikes
Johan Elmander's angled effort forced Pepe Reina into a save before the half-hour, but both teams were sitting back, which made the goal when it arrived a bit of a surprise. Steve Finnan's long ball was headed on by Peter Crouch on the edge of the box to Voronin who controlled, turned and fired past a helpless Nicolas Douchez in the Toulouse goal.
Douchez intervention
Fodé Mansare came into the Toulouse midfield for the second half, yet the home side were restricted to long-range efforts from Achille Emana and Elmander. Douchez then made a superb intervention as Crouch looked to head the ball beyond his grasp, while Gerrard again came close after fine work by Ryan Babel, who formed a useful understanding with his new team-mate.
Torres bow
With around 15 minutes left another Liverpool signing, Fernando Torres, made his UEFA Champions League debut as Voronin's replacement, but the Spain forward never really had a chance to emulate the Ukrainian by getting on the scoresheet. Still, Liverpool's record of never exiting this competition in the third qualifying round looks on course to continue.
©uefa.com 1998-2007. All rights reserved.
Andriy Voronin's classy finish gave 2006/07 UEFA Champions League finalists Liverpool FC victory at Toulouse FC in the first leg of their third qualifying round tie.
Powerful shot
Voronin made his European debut for Liverpool after his summer transfer from Bayer 04 Leverkusen and just before half-time his powerful shot gave the five-time winners a lead to take back to Anfield on 28 August. Toulouse, on their UEFA Champions League bow, have a tough task on their hands if they are to win a two-legged European tie for only the second time.
Afternoon heat
With the game kicking off in the afternoon due to the Assumption Day holiday in France, the temperature was well over 30C and perhaps contributed to the fairly quiet opening. Steven Gerrard curled a free-kick just wide on three minutes with the ball only just eluding Voronin, but it was not until midway through the half that the next real chance arrived, Gerrard shooting over.
Voronin strikes
Johan Elmander's angled effort forced Pepe Reina into a save before the half-hour, but both teams were sitting back, which made the goal when it arrived a bit of a surprise. Steve Finnan's long ball was headed on by Peter Crouch on the edge of the box to Voronin who controlled, turned and fired past a helpless Nicolas Douchez in the Toulouse goal.
Douchez intervention
Fodé Mansare came into the Toulouse midfield for the second half, yet the home side were restricted to long-range efforts from Achille Emana and Elmander. Douchez then made a superb intervention as Crouch looked to head the ball beyond his grasp, while Gerrard again came close after fine work by Ryan Babel, who formed a useful understanding with his new team-mate.
Torres bow
With around 15 minutes left another Liverpool signing, Fernando Torres, made his UEFA Champions League debut as Voronin's replacement, but the Spain forward never really had a chance to emulate the Ukrainian by getting on the scoresheet. Still, Liverpool's record of never exiting this competition in the third qualifying round looks on course to continue.
©uefa.com 1998-2007. All rights reserved.
LIVERPOOL MAKE A WINNING START
Saturday, 11th August 2007
A STUNNING 87th-minute free kick by captain Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa as the new Premier League season opened on Saturday.
Sven-Goran Eriksson's Manchester City beat West Ham United 2-0, Roy Keane's promoted Sunderland snatched a 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur and Sam Allardyce's first game as Newcastle United boss ended in a 3-1 win at former club Bolton Wanderers.
Liverpool looked set for a disappointing start when their 31st-minute lead, courtesy of an own goal by Villa's Danish defender Martin Laursen, was cancelled out by Gareth Barry's 85th-minute penalty.
But Gerrard curled home an inswinging free kick from 25 metres two minutes later, dipping the ball into the top right-hand corner after deftly bending it around the Villa wall.
"Over the last couple of seasons we've been very frustrated with the starts we've made,'' Gerrard told Setanta Sports.
"We've dropped silly points and been playing catch up with the big boys early on. "
"The idea this year is to get a solid start and try to stay in the (title) race all the way.''
Champions Manchester United, FA Cup holders Chelsea and Arsenal are all in action on Sunday.
A STUNNING 87th-minute free kick by captain Steven Gerrard gave Liverpool a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa as the new Premier League season opened on Saturday.
Sven-Goran Eriksson's Manchester City beat West Ham United 2-0, Roy Keane's promoted Sunderland snatched a 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur and Sam Allardyce's first game as Newcastle United boss ended in a 3-1 win at former club Bolton Wanderers.
Liverpool looked set for a disappointing start when their 31st-minute lead, courtesy of an own goal by Villa's Danish defender Martin Laursen, was cancelled out by Gareth Barry's 85th-minute penalty.
But Gerrard curled home an inswinging free kick from 25 metres two minutes later, dipping the ball into the top right-hand corner after deftly bending it around the Villa wall.
"Over the last couple of seasons we've been very frustrated with the starts we've made,'' Gerrard told Setanta Sports.
"We've dropped silly points and been playing catch up with the big boys early on. "
"The idea this year is to get a solid start and try to stay in the (title) race all the way.''
Champions Manchester United, FA Cup holders Chelsea and Arsenal are all in action on Sunday.
LIVERPOOL'S REINA WINS BARCLAYS GOLDEN GLOVE AWARD
Wednesday, 8th August 2007
Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is top of the clean sheet charts again...
Liverpool's Spanish goalkeeper Jose Manuel 'Pepe' Reina has won the Barclays Golden Glove Award for the second successive season after keeping 19 clean sheets in the 2006-07 Barclays Premier League campaign.
Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is top of the clean sheet charts again...
Liverpool's Spanish goalkeeper Jose Manuel 'Pepe' Reina has won the Barclays Golden Glove Award for the second successive season after keeping 19 clean sheets in the 2006-07 Barclays Premier League campaign.
Reina's nearerst rival was across Stanley Park at Goodison, where Everton's Tim Howard recorded 14 shut-outs. Reading's Marcus Hahnemann followed with 13 clean sheets in his first Barclays Premier League season.
Previous Barclays Golden Glove winner Petr Cech, and Manchester United's Edwin van der Sar, were two of five goalkeepers who racked up 12 games without conceding.
Reina Fact-File:
Jose Manuel Reina was born on 31st August 1982 in Madrid, but began his career with Barcelona and made his debut for the Catalan side at the age of 18, also playing against Liverpool in the 2001 UEFA Cup semi-final.
Reina signed for Liverpool in July 2005 from Villarreal for £6 million.
During the 2006-07 season he made 34 League appearances and registered 19 clean sheets. He now holds the Liverpool club record for successive clean sheets since the Barclays Premier League began, overtaking the five games in a row achieved by David James in the 1996/97 season.
REDS LET STRIKER GO
Tuesday, 7th August 2007
Florent Sinama-Pongolle has completed a permanent move to Recreativo from Liverpool.
The French striker spent last season on loan with Recreativo and notched 12 goals in La Liga.
His stint in Spain failed to convince Rafa Benitez of his capablities and he has been allowed to rejoin Recreativo permanently.
Details of the fee have not been disclosed and the deal brings an end to Sinama-Pongolle's four-year association with Liverpool.
During his time at Anfield, Sinama-Pongolle scored nine times in 66 appearances and also spent a spell on loan at Blackburn Rovers.
CARRAGHER U-TURN UNLIKELY - MURPHY
Tuesday, 7th August 2007
Danny Murphy believes former Liverpool team-mate Jamie Carragher will stick to his guns and keep himself out of the international reckoning despite England manager Steve McClaren's attempts to persuade him to return.
McClaren, who is short of defenders as John Terry, Ledley King are definitely out for the friendly against Germany on August 22 and Jonathan Woodgate highly doubtful, is weighing up a recall for Portsmouth defender Sol Campbell but also wants Liverpool defender Carragher to come back.
Danny Murphy believes former Liverpool team-mate Jamie Carragher will stick to his guns and keep himself out of the international reckoning despite England manager Steve McClaren's attempts to persuade him to return.
McClaren, who is short of defenders as John Terry, Ledley King are definitely out for the friendly against Germany on August 22 and Jonathan Woodgate highly doubtful, is weighing up a recall for Portsmouth defender Sol Campbell but also wants Liverpool defender Carragher to come back.
Carragher quit the national team because he felt he was being overlooked by McClaren and Murphy told talkSPORT: "I'd be surprised to be honest. I've spoken to him a couple of times recently. I'm personally in agreement with what he's done for lots of different reasons, mostly the one's he's given."
He added: "In terms of now, is he going to be used because there's a crisis or an emergency? I think as a player it would maybe make him feel, or would make me feel if I was in that situation, a bit like, 'Oh, you need me because there's nobody else'.
"Also, if he does go back in and he doesn't play to his normal consistent level, he's leaving himself in for a hell of a battering from people. It's a very difficult one, I feel for him.
"I think what he's wanted to do is make himself available because he's an honest lad and a good pro who doesn't want to be in a position where he's saying, 'I won't play for England'.
"But he's also putting himself in a hell of a position if he does go back and play because there's going to be a lot of people who want to get on his back if he doesn't do as well as he normally does.
"I spoke to him on Monday, or the day before, and I think he was due to have a conversation with Steve McClaren so it will be interesting to see what he does.
"I think there is one thing for sure with Jamie, whether he plays full-back, centre-half, anywhere else, if he puts on that England shirt, forget what's been said in the past, you know what you're getting from Jamie.
"If you had four Jamie Carraghers in your back four you wouldn't lose too many games, I can assure you of that much."
HEINZE BRAVELY TACKLES FERGUSON HEAD-ON AS FIGHT FOR FREEDOM TAKES DRAMATIC TWIST
Tuesday, 7th August 2007
IT is a brave player who walks into Alex Ferguson's office and demands understanding - let alone a transfer to Liverpool - but Gabriel Heinze did just that yesterday as he returned to pre-season training with little or no intention of building the bridges he has burnt over the past five weeks.
Ferguson, alarmed but seemingly not unnerved by the player's actions during the summer, had suggested that there would be "no problem" once Heinze was back in the fold at Old Trafford, but the Argentina defender's mood on his return to United's Carrington training ground was far from conciliatory as he claimed that the club were guilty of breaking promises in blocking a proposed €10million move to Liverpool.
It was not clear last night how Ferguson had reacted to Heinze's show of dissent, but no matter how stubborn the manager may be by nature, there is a growing feeling among the United hierarchy that the defender's position seems untenable.
Heinze, his agent and his legal team are determined to proceed with the legal bid to force the player's departure, whether via the Premier League or the courts, with the only encouraging aspect for Ferguson that the 29-year-old is willing to consider alternative offers, with Real Madrid and Juventus having registered interest.
United would prefer to send Heinze overseas, even if it meant receiving a smaller fee than that offered by Liverpool three weeks ago.
Dismay
However, their unwillingness to sell to the Merseyside club - which they have not done since Phil Chisnall moved to Anfield in 1964 - has led the player and his agent, Roberto Rodriguez, who is less than revered by Ferguson, to campaign for a transfer that would dismay the United supporters who grew to idolise him after his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain in June 2004.
Heinze was told that he could leave at the end of last season, when a move to an unnamed Spanish club seemed imminent.
United chief executive David Gill wrote to Rodriguez to confirm that the player could be sold for a fee of €10m, with Heinze and his representatives regarding that letter as a legal document that entitles him to move if any club offer such a fee, as Liverpool did on July 16. Gill has stated that the letter is "meaningless", but it has been seized by Heinze's legal team - which includes Liverpool's legal adviser Richard Green - as a passport to Anfield.
Having been given extra time off after his exertions for Argentina in the Copa America last month, Heinze cited an injury on his return to Carrington, which rules him out of either of the two friendly matches tomorrow evening, away to Dunfermline Athletic and Glentoran, one of which is expected to feature a debut for Carlos Tevez, his compatriot.
The Argentina forward has not finalised his controversial move from West Ham, but Ferguson hopes that the necessary paperwork will be completed in time.
Already impressed with Tevez's ability is United veteran Ryan Giggs. "I am really excited about Carlos joining," he said.
"He trained with us on Friday and fitted in straight away. We saw last year what a quality player he is. He can score goals and create them and will definitely give us an extra dimension."
Options
Despite Tevez being poised to add to United's already impressive attacking options, the Welshman believes it will be in defence that the Premiership will be won or lost.
"We do have plenty of attacking flair," said Giggs. "We have at least four or five players who can change a game and take people on. That is what Manchester United is all about.
"But you cannot lose sight of the fact defences win you championships and that is what happened last year.
"The defenders provide the platform for attacking players to produce the skills they have. We must defend well and be solid as a team."
United's preparations for the new season have also been boosted by the signing of Tony Strudwick, a highly regarded fitness coach, whom they have enticed from Blackburn Rovers.
This development follows the abrupt and acrimonious departure of Valter di Salvo, the United fitness coach, to Real Madrid last month - but United have moved quickly to replace him, with Strudwick having begun his new job on Saturday.
Blackburn are understood to be disappointed by the timing of the man manager Mark Hughes credits with turning his squad into the fittest in the top flight, but United are working on a compensation package that would go some way towards smoothing relations with their Lancashire neighbours. (©The Times, London)
- Oliver Kay
KENNY DALGLISH: PREMIERSHIP PREDICTIONS
Tuesday, 7th August 2007
The Liverpool legend has given us his verdict on the Premier League. Agree? Disagree? Let us know by using the comments button at the bottom of this story.
And Sven... look away now!
"MARTIN JOL’S Tottenham will gatecrash the top-four party in the Premiership this season.
I’m sure the usual suspects will be leading the race - Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea - but the real interest centres on that fourth spot.
I’m sure the usual suspects will be leading the race - Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea - but the real interest centres on that fourth spot.
The capture of Darren Bent could well prove to prove to be £16.5million well spent. He grabbed 15 goals in a struggling Charlton side last season and his partnership with Bulgaria’s Dimitar Berbatov, who helped himself to 25, could be explosive.
The football in North London should be good to watch. We all know Arsenal, even without Thierry Henry, will play attractive football.
The arrival of Eduardo Da Silva to link up with his Brazilian team mate Gilberto could spark the Gunners into life. In the pre-season tournament at the Emirates, they at least had a go.
CONTINUE READING "Kenny Dalglish: Premiership predictions" HERE »>>>
LET THE GAMES BEGIN....
Sunday, 5th August 2007
So, that’s pre-season over, we went through our preperations unbeaten, and still managed to avoid winning two trophies (well, one trophy, and some kind of strange porcelain thing that wouldn’t have looked out of place had Hugh Scully been fawning over it).
So, that’s pre-season over, we went through our preperations unbeaten, and still managed to avoid winning two trophies (well, one trophy, and some kind of strange porcelain thing that wouldn’t have looked out of place had Hugh Scully been fawning over it).
More importantly, we go into the season with a full week to prepare, no injuries (tonights game was not a final, so I think when Harry went off it was tactical, not the compulsory final injury). The team, based on the most recent evidence, seems to have a bit of fire in their belly, and all the new players have had a decent amount of minutes and time to settle in. All new signings have, in fits and starts and in varying degrees, impressed, and not one looks, at this very early stage, like a bad signing.
We have quite possibly the best fist team, and the best squad overall, that we’ve had for almost twenty years, a great manager, and an encourging sense of positivity surrounds the entire club. Big money is being spent (though the net spend is in line with, or lower, than previous years), and a big stadium on the way. The big players have all been tied to long term contracts, and the fans have big hopes.
Expectactions will, of course, be high - we’re LFC, and they always are - but whatever happens, I’m just glad it’s football time again!
Let’s finally get that number 19!
REDS END PRE-SEASON WITH DRAW
Sunday, 5th August 2007
Liverpool will go into their Premiership opener next week relaxed about the fact that they turned a game that was slipping out of their hands, however, they shall still be questioning some of their own players match-readiness against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Steven Gerrard scored an impressive late equaliser in Liverpool’s final game of their pre-season campaign as the Reds drew 1-1 with Feyenoord in the Port of Rotterdam Tournament on Sunday evening.
Liverpool will go into their Premiership opener next week relaxed about the fact that they turned a game that was slipping out of their hands, however, they shall still be questioning some of their own players match-readiness against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Steven Gerrard scored an impressive late equaliser in Liverpool’s final game of their pre-season campaign as the Reds drew 1-1 with Feyenoord in the Port of Rotterdam Tournament on Sunday evening.
The captain drove forward in the 73rd minute to take the ball past the Feyenoord defence and slot home left-footed past Ekramy to cancel out Royston Drenthe’s goal a minute before half-time.
The result means that Liverpool do not take any silverwear back to Anfield with them from the pre-season campaign, with the Port of Rotterdam Tournament being won by FC Porto who earlier beat Shanghai Shenhua 3-0.
Liverpool now travel to Villa Park next Saturday for their opening game of the new league season.
Benitez saw six of his players booked - there were nine cautions in all during the 1-1 draw - and skipper Steven Gerrard come close to being sent off for a shove in the face of Feyenoord's Theo Lucius as the game deteriorated into a melee involving most of the players on the pitch.
Gerrard had earlier grabbed Liverpool's equaliser but was furious with a late tackle from young winger Royston Drenthe, the hosts' first-half scorer.
Lucius had earlier twice pushed Daniel Agger as tempers flared.
Benitez said: "I do not think Steven will be in trouble, there was a lot going on out on the pitch.
"It was hard to see what was going on and I would want to review the match before commenting - but I would need to see the replay to decide what happened, but maybe you should talk about everything with the referee.
"I felt the team played okay, we had some chances but could not score. In terms of football, we were all right. As for the tournament, this was a very strange one."
Benitez was clearly not impressed by the standard of the event that included a very poor Shanghai side and a competitive but defensive host club.
He added: "Maybe these kind of games are more difficult with a local referee in charge. They become even more difficult.
"I am not bothered really about what went on and how the lads were treated, it is not the end of the world."
And Benitez praised Gerrard's contribution and goal, coming after his excellent effort in Friday's 2-0 win over Shanghai.
Benitez said: "Steven showed us what he can do, there was another goal for him. But the team also, they created chances and played well.
"Steven though will normally play more games this season in a central role. We have got plenty of wingers now.
"We have confidence, we have prepared well and have a better squad than last season, so hopefully we can start with a win in the league at Aston Villa on Saturday."
TORRES SCORES FIRST FOR LIVERPOOL
Friday, 3rd August 2007
Liverpool's record signing Fernando Torres scored his first goal for the club in their penultimate pre-season friendly against Shanghai Shenhau.
The £20m striker picked up a Yossi Benayoun pass and chipped it home as Liverpool recorded a 2-0 win in the Rotterdam tournament.
Captain Steve Gerrard sent a curling 20-yard shot home for the second.
"Getting off the mark will give Torres confidence heading into the new season," said Reds boss Rafael Benitez.
"I was very pleased with Fernando, it was very important for him to score his first goal for Liverpool.
"When Peter Crouch first joined us, everyone was asking when he was going to score. Torres has now got that and that takes the pressure off.
"Both goals were really good and I was very pleased with the performance of my players."
Liverpool will aim to round off their pre-season programme with a good performance against hosts Feyenoord on Sunday.
RAFA STILL UNDECIDED
Friday, 3rd August 2007
Liverpool’s Rafa Benitez Reveals He Is Undecided On Line-Up For Aston Villa Clash - The Reds' New Boys Torres & Babel Improving
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has urged the players to step up a level in the final pre-season tune-up event in Rotterdam and training next week, to get into his starting line-up for the Premiership opener.
Benitez has said that he still has not decided as to who will feature in the starting line up for the Reds first game of the season which is against Aston Villa next weekend.
Liverpool’s Rafa Benitez Reveals He Is Undecided On Line-Up For Aston Villa Clash - The Reds' New Boys Torres & Babel Improving
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has urged the players to step up a level in the final pre-season tune-up event in Rotterdam and training next week, to get into his starting line-up for the Premiership opener.
Benitez has said that he still has not decided as to who will feature in the starting line up for the Reds first game of the season which is against Aston Villa next weekend.
"I have not yet decided who will start the first Premiership game, it's still too early to say," said Benitez, whose side face Shanghai in the Rotterdam Tournament tonight.
"The players know if they show a good level in these games and in training next week, then it will decide what we do.
"We're now looking for the players to show their sharpness and form, and we're seeing improvements every day in training.
"They know how strong the competition for places now is in every position, and that's making a difference.
"On Wednesday we organised a full practice match, and the quality and tempo of our play was of a high quality."
The Spaniard had said after the Hong-Kong tournament that new signings Fernando Torres and Ryan Babel, in partitular needed to improve. And Benitez has now revealed that they are coming on well along with fellow new arrivals.
"All the new players, Babel, Torres, Leto and Leiva, are adapting to the side and we're really happy with how they're doing in training.
"Now the idea is to show the same in the games, but we must remember everything now is about preparing for the Premiership game next week."
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GROUP STAGE - LIVERPOOL FACE TOULOUSE TEST
Friday, 3rd August 2007
Liverpool must overcome a tricky trip to Toulouse, France if they are to reach the Champions League group stage.
Liverpool must overcome a tricky trip to Toulouse, France if they are to reach the Champions League group stage.
The Reds, who have won the competition five times and were beaten in last season's final, must face the Ligue 1 side over two legs for a place in the lucrative section of the competition.
Arsenal's first European tie since the departure of talismanic striker Thierry Henry will be a tough one too, against Czech side Sparta Prague.
FOWLER SNUBS CARDIFF FOR LIVERPOOL!
Friday, 3rd August 2007
Cardiff City's new hero and star attraction Robbie Fowler has decided against a move to the City and will instead remain in his luxury pad on Merseyside.
Fowler will instead link up with his fellow Bluebirds for training every day - by helicopter. It is understood that Fowler is set to splash a quarter of a million pounds on a luxury helicopter and commute by air to Cardiff each day.
The flight will take not too long over an hour (depending on traffic), meaning that Fowler wont have too much trouble being on time and won't have to relocate himself or his young family.
This is a similar arrangement to that of Michael Owen, who helicopters himself from North Wales to Newcastle on a daily basis.
"VitalCardiff" website will hazard a guess that Fowler is the first Cardiff City player to take up this kind of arrangement. Former midfielder Graham Kavanagh reportedly took a helicopter out of the club, but I cant see any of the current or previous squads owning their own helicopter!
Cardiff City's new hero and star attraction Robbie Fowler has decided against a move to the City and will instead remain in his luxury pad on Merseyside.
Fowler will instead link up with his fellow Bluebirds for training every day - by helicopter. It is understood that Fowler is set to splash a quarter of a million pounds on a luxury helicopter and commute by air to Cardiff each day.
The flight will take not too long over an hour (depending on traffic), meaning that Fowler wont have too much trouble being on time and won't have to relocate himself or his young family.
This is a similar arrangement to that of Michael Owen, who helicopters himself from North Wales to Newcastle on a daily basis.
"VitalCardiff" website will hazard a guess that Fowler is the first Cardiff City player to take up this kind of arrangement. Former midfielder Graham Kavanagh reportedly took a helicopter out of the club, but I cant see any of the current or previous squads owning their own helicopter!
MEOMO TO MANCHESTER UNITED, CHELSEA AND ARSENAL - IT'S LIVERPOOL TITLE THIS TIME!
Thursday, 2nd August 2007
'Spending under £3m on 10 of the brightest prospects in world football will look like the transfer business of the century in a few years'
Rafa Benitez has bought freely and shrewdly and the long wait will be over for Anfield's faithful.
So, here we are. Two weeks before the new Premiership season kicks off and the excitement is tangible. Reinforcements by the top clubs, and a host of decent signings further down the table, have made the new season a mouth-watering prospect indeed. Young talent abounds, and some big-money transfers prove that chairmen are finally putting their money where their mouth is.
And what a season it will be for Liverpool fans. After years of disappointment in the league, their time has finally come. For a true Red, the Champions League is not enough, and despite reaching two European Cup finals in three years what a Liverpudlian really wants is the Premiership. And at long last it will be going home. The most successful team in English history is all set to extend its lead. Here's why:
The Signings:
Liverpool have made some astonishing buys this summer. Whilst other clubs may have been trying to steal the headlines with their big-money buys, it is really Liverpool who are being looked upon with envy. Fernando Torres has arrived at Anfield, and will undoubtedly set the Premiership on fire. Rafa Benitez has a habit of shrewd buys, and when he spends £20m plus, you know the player will be worth it.
Thirty goals is not an unrealistic target for a player of Fernando Torres' quality, and he will finally be giving Liverpool fans what they've wanted ever since the departure of Robbie Fowler - a true goal-scoring machine. And it is not just Liverpool fans who think this, either. Manchester United tried to sign Torres (indeed, Wayne Rooney was only bought because of their failure to land the prolific Spaniard), and yet he held out for the club he knew was best. Liverpool.
Ryan Babel also chose Liverpool ahead of a Premiership rival. He was linked heavily with Arsenal following his limelight-stealing displays at the Under-21 Championships, but instead opted for Merseyside. A winger of immense promise, his link-up with Torres will be invaluable, and under the guidance of the best manager in the Premiership he will almost certainly go on to surpass wingers such as Joe Cole or Cristiano Ronaldo.
And Benitez doesn't just shell out big bucks, either. In a year where Manchester United have decided to finally admit that their youth no longer matters, and buy risky and overpriced youngsters from abroad, Rafa has been shrewd. Spending under £3m on 10 of the brightest prospects in world football will look like the transfer business of the century in a few years.
Chelsea, too, may be boasting about reinforcing with little money spent, but Liverpool have outdone them. Jose Mourinho may be puffing his ego at the captures of Tal Ben-Haim, Steve Sidwell and Claudio Pizzaro on free transfers, but the capture of Andriy Voronin for nothing will outshine them all. It has even been said that the free Ukrainian will prove to be a better player than Chelsea's own £30m international teammate.
The Squad:
Liverpool's squad now looks by far the best in the Premiership. They have, on his day, the best goalkeeper in the world, and a solid back-line. Steve Finnan and Jamie Carragher are the two best players in their positions in the Premiership. Daniel Agger is a fantastic prospect, much better than the oft over-rated centre-backs of Liverpool's rivals.
Remember, Benitez had the option to sign either Agger or Nemanja Vidic. He chose Agger, and with good reason. The addition of Gabriel Heinze at left-back will prove to be a masterstroke, as the Argentine international adds steel to that side of the field. Liverpool fans can almost taste the sweetness of a last-minute headed winner against the old enemy at Old Trafford by the Argentinian.
Liverpool, too, have the strongest midfield in the world. Steven Gerrard is the most accomplished central midfielder England has ever seen, and his partnership with Javier Mascherano will prove decisive. The addition of Lucas Leiva, and the continuing excellent service of Xabi Alonso, will show that Liverpool have been building these past few years. Building to win.
And need I mention the strikers? Voronin and Torres are the new boys, and will make an immediate impact. And that is forgetting the talent that Liverpool already have. Dirk Kuyt is yet to show the form that caused such hype in Holland, but that time will come. Liverpool will have the best midfield and the best attack in the Premiership.
The Title:
The long wait will finally be over, and Liverpool will lift that coveted trophy. Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal may scoff at the idea, but Liverpool fans don't say they'll win unless they're confident. They've never been proven wrong before, and they won't be this time. It is Liverpool's year!
'Spending under £3m on 10 of the brightest prospects in world football will look like the transfer business of the century in a few years'
Rafa Benitez has bought freely and shrewdly and the long wait will be over for Anfield's faithful.
So, here we are. Two weeks before the new Premiership season kicks off and the excitement is tangible. Reinforcements by the top clubs, and a host of decent signings further down the table, have made the new season a mouth-watering prospect indeed. Young talent abounds, and some big-money transfers prove that chairmen are finally putting their money where their mouth is.
And what a season it will be for Liverpool fans. After years of disappointment in the league, their time has finally come. For a true Red, the Champions League is not enough, and despite reaching two European Cup finals in three years what a Liverpudlian really wants is the Premiership. And at long last it will be going home. The most successful team in English history is all set to extend its lead. Here's why:
The Signings:
Liverpool have made some astonishing buys this summer. Whilst other clubs may have been trying to steal the headlines with their big-money buys, it is really Liverpool who are being looked upon with envy. Fernando Torres has arrived at Anfield, and will undoubtedly set the Premiership on fire. Rafa Benitez has a habit of shrewd buys, and when he spends £20m plus, you know the player will be worth it.
Thirty goals is not an unrealistic target for a player of Fernando Torres' quality, and he will finally be giving Liverpool fans what they've wanted ever since the departure of Robbie Fowler - a true goal-scoring machine. And it is not just Liverpool fans who think this, either. Manchester United tried to sign Torres (indeed, Wayne Rooney was only bought because of their failure to land the prolific Spaniard), and yet he held out for the club he knew was best. Liverpool.
Ryan Babel also chose Liverpool ahead of a Premiership rival. He was linked heavily with Arsenal following his limelight-stealing displays at the Under-21 Championships, but instead opted for Merseyside. A winger of immense promise, his link-up with Torres will be invaluable, and under the guidance of the best manager in the Premiership he will almost certainly go on to surpass wingers such as Joe Cole or Cristiano Ronaldo.
And Benitez doesn't just shell out big bucks, either. In a year where Manchester United have decided to finally admit that their youth no longer matters, and buy risky and overpriced youngsters from abroad, Rafa has been shrewd. Spending under £3m on 10 of the brightest prospects in world football will look like the transfer business of the century in a few years.
Chelsea, too, may be boasting about reinforcing with little money spent, but Liverpool have outdone them. Jose Mourinho may be puffing his ego at the captures of Tal Ben-Haim, Steve Sidwell and Claudio Pizzaro on free transfers, but the capture of Andriy Voronin for nothing will outshine them all. It has even been said that the free Ukrainian will prove to be a better player than Chelsea's own £30m international teammate.
The Squad:
Liverpool's squad now looks by far the best in the Premiership. They have, on his day, the best goalkeeper in the world, and a solid back-line. Steve Finnan and Jamie Carragher are the two best players in their positions in the Premiership. Daniel Agger is a fantastic prospect, much better than the oft over-rated centre-backs of Liverpool's rivals.
Remember, Benitez had the option to sign either Agger or Nemanja Vidic. He chose Agger, and with good reason. The addition of Gabriel Heinze at left-back will prove to be a masterstroke, as the Argentine international adds steel to that side of the field. Liverpool fans can almost taste the sweetness of a last-minute headed winner against the old enemy at Old Trafford by the Argentinian.
Liverpool, too, have the strongest midfield in the world. Steven Gerrard is the most accomplished central midfielder England has ever seen, and his partnership with Javier Mascherano will prove decisive. The addition of Lucas Leiva, and the continuing excellent service of Xabi Alonso, will show that Liverpool have been building these past few years. Building to win.
And need I mention the strikers? Voronin and Torres are the new boys, and will make an immediate impact. And that is forgetting the talent that Liverpool already have. Dirk Kuyt is yet to show the form that caused such hype in Holland, but that time will come. Liverpool will have the best midfield and the best attack in the Premiership.
The Title:
The long wait will finally be over, and Liverpool will lift that coveted trophy. Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal may scoff at the idea, but Liverpool fans don't say they'll win unless they're confident. They've never been proven wrong before, and they won't be this time. It is Liverpool's year!
BENITEZ: WE'VE GAINED LOTS FROM HONG KONG
Friday, 27th July 2007
Rafa Benitez insists the Reds have gained much from their trip to Hong Kong despite losing to Portsmouth on penalties in the Barclays Asia Trophy final.
Speaking after Friday's defeat, the Spaniard revealed the trip had helped not only fitness, but also team spirit.
"It's disappointing to lose but it has been a useful tournament for us," Benitez said. "The players have shown their levels, we've had some competitive matches, training has been good and the players have bonded well.
"We have to improve but the team is playing well and creating chances. We had plenty of possession and chances against Portsmouth, I just think we need to be fitter."
The Reds lost 4-2 on penalties after David James saved from Yossi Benayoun and Fernando Torres.
However, Benitez refused to blame his newboys for his side missing out on their first piece of silverware of the season.
"Anyone can miss a penalty so I'm not going to attach blame. You can score every time in training but it's different in a game."
The Liverpool boss also claimed the return of Harry Kewell from injury was akin to a new signing.
He said: "In Harry Kewell we've signed a new player. He's played two on the trot so we had to take him off in the second half, but I am really pleased with him."
Rafa Benitez insists the Reds have gained much from their trip to Hong Kong despite losing to Portsmouth on penalties in the Barclays Asia Trophy final.
Speaking after Friday's defeat, the Spaniard revealed the trip had helped not only fitness, but also team spirit.
"It's disappointing to lose but it has been a useful tournament for us," Benitez said. "The players have shown their levels, we've had some competitive matches, training has been good and the players have bonded well.
"We have to improve but the team is playing well and creating chances. We had plenty of possession and chances against Portsmouth, I just think we need to be fitter."
The Reds lost 4-2 on penalties after David James saved from Yossi Benayoun and Fernando Torres.
However, Benitez refused to blame his newboys for his side missing out on their first piece of silverware of the season.
"Anyone can miss a penalty so I'm not going to attach blame. You can score every time in training but it's different in a game."
The Liverpool boss also claimed the return of Harry Kewell from injury was akin to a new signing.
He said: "In Harry Kewell we've signed a new player. He's played two on the trot so we had to take him off in the second half, but I am really pleased with him."
SHOOT-OUT DEFEAT COSTS REDS SILVERWARE
Friday, 27th July 2007
Liverpool failed to make their dominance pay and missed out on their first chance of silverware this season as a result after Portsmouth triumphed on penalties in the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy.
Following a 90-minute stalemate, Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayou were denied their first goals in a red shirt as Pompey emerged 4-2 winners in the shoot-out. Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt converted but Nico Kranjcar sealed victory.
With the wrangle over international clearance finally sorted, Lucas Leiva made his Liverpool debut as an 82nd minute substitute, but the loudest cheers were reserved for Gerrard and Torres who also both came off the bench in the second half.
Aside from one small pocket of blue, the Hong Kong Stadium was a sea of Reds as Liverpool's Asian army of support turned the venue into their own version of Anfield for the night and the team responded with a highly promising start.
Moments after suffering a head injury when colliding with Sol Campbell, Kuyt got on the end of a Kewell cross and fired narrowly over with the outside of his boot.
Harry Kewell was proving a constant threat down the left flank but it was through the centre that he created Liverpool's next notable opportunity, charging through the Pompey half. The ball fell to Pennant out wide and his centre found Kuyt who failed to keep his effort below the bar. A slick passing move then presented the Dutch striker with another chance but this time his shot on the turn was well saved by James who dived low to his left.
The former Reds keeper was pulled off an even better stop to deny Kuyt a second time soon afterwards, getting down well to push out a header from point-blank range, following an inch-perfect cross from the right by Pennant.
At the opposite end Portsmouth had to wait until the 38th minute before carving out their first goalscoring opportunity and only the excellence of Pepe Reina prevented them from taking the lead against the run of play.
Gary O'Neill raced clean through on goal from just over the halfway line but Reina was quick to react and superbly deflected the ball behind for a corner.
Record signing Torres entered the fray amid deafening applause five minutes into the second half, replacing Kewell, but it was Pennant who was next to try his luck at breaking the deadlock, rounding James on the corner of the box and was unluckily just missing the target with a lofted effort.
A lapse in concentration in the Liverpool defence saw Lua Lua almost catch Reina out with a low angled drive that came back off the near post, before Torres got in on the act with a shot that was tipped over the top. The Spanish striker gradually began to make his presence felt and chipped wide with another opportunist chance. He then raced on to a through ball and battled away to force James into another impressive save.
It was the last noteworthy goalscoring attempt of the 90 minutes and it was left to the lottery of spot-kicks to decide which team would take home the trophy.
Unfortunately, it went the way of Pompey. Thankfully, the important trophies aren't given out until May and let's hope it's a different story then.
Teams
Liverpool: Reina, Riise, Hyypia (captain), Agger, Finnan, Kewell, Sissoko, Alonso, Pennant, Kuyt, Babel. Subs - Gerrard MBE, Crouch, Carson, Threlfall, Leiva, Benayoun, Voronin, Torres, Arbeloa, Martin, Carragher
Portsmouth: James, Traore, Campbell (captain), Distin, Cranie, Taylor, O'Neill, Mendes, Muntari, Mwaruwari, Nugent. Subs - Lua Lua, Pamarot, Kranjcar, , Begovic, Mvuemba, Utaka, Stefanovic, Hreidarsson, O'Brien
Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Conditions: Very hot Attendance: Unknown
Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Momo Sissoko
Liverpool failed to make their dominance pay and missed out on their first chance of silverware this season as a result after Portsmouth triumphed on penalties in the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy.
Following a 90-minute stalemate, Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayou were denied their first goals in a red shirt as Pompey emerged 4-2 winners in the shoot-out. Steven Gerrard and Dirk Kuyt converted but Nico Kranjcar sealed victory.
With the wrangle over international clearance finally sorted, Lucas Leiva made his Liverpool debut as an 82nd minute substitute, but the loudest cheers were reserved for Gerrard and Torres who also both came off the bench in the second half.
Aside from one small pocket of blue, the Hong Kong Stadium was a sea of Reds as Liverpool's Asian army of support turned the venue into their own version of Anfield for the night and the team responded with a highly promising start.
Moments after suffering a head injury when colliding with Sol Campbell, Kuyt got on the end of a Kewell cross and fired narrowly over with the outside of his boot.
Harry Kewell was proving a constant threat down the left flank but it was through the centre that he created Liverpool's next notable opportunity, charging through the Pompey half. The ball fell to Pennant out wide and his centre found Kuyt who failed to keep his effort below the bar. A slick passing move then presented the Dutch striker with another chance but this time his shot on the turn was well saved by James who dived low to his left.
The former Reds keeper was pulled off an even better stop to deny Kuyt a second time soon afterwards, getting down well to push out a header from point-blank range, following an inch-perfect cross from the right by Pennant.
At the opposite end Portsmouth had to wait until the 38th minute before carving out their first goalscoring opportunity and only the excellence of Pepe Reina prevented them from taking the lead against the run of play.
Gary O'Neill raced clean through on goal from just over the halfway line but Reina was quick to react and superbly deflected the ball behind for a corner.
Record signing Torres entered the fray amid deafening applause five minutes into the second half, replacing Kewell, but it was Pennant who was next to try his luck at breaking the deadlock, rounding James on the corner of the box and was unluckily just missing the target with a lofted effort.
A lapse in concentration in the Liverpool defence saw Lua Lua almost catch Reina out with a low angled drive that came back off the near post, before Torres got in on the act with a shot that was tipped over the top. The Spanish striker gradually began to make his presence felt and chipped wide with another opportunist chance. He then raced on to a through ball and battled away to force James into another impressive save.
It was the last noteworthy goalscoring attempt of the 90 minutes and it was left to the lottery of spot-kicks to decide which team would take home the trophy.
Unfortunately, it went the way of Pompey. Thankfully, the important trophies aren't given out until May and let's hope it's a different story then.
Teams
Liverpool: Reina, Riise, Hyypia (captain), Agger, Finnan, Kewell, Sissoko, Alonso, Pennant, Kuyt, Babel. Subs - Gerrard MBE, Crouch, Carson, Threlfall, Leiva, Benayoun, Voronin, Torres, Arbeloa, Martin, Carragher
Portsmouth: James, Traore, Campbell (captain), Distin, Cranie, Taylor, O'Neill, Mendes, Muntari, Mwaruwari, Nugent. Subs - Lua Lua, Pamarot, Kranjcar, , Begovic, Mvuemba, Utaka, Stefanovic, Hreidarsson, O'Brien
Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Conditions: Very hot Attendance: Unknown
Liverpoolfc.tv Man-of-the-Match: Momo Sissoko
FERGIE GOT 'FED UP' WITH TORRES SAGA
Thursday, 26th July 2007
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he got 'fed up' with waiting for Spain striker Fernando Torres.
Ferguson has conceded he had been interested in signing Liverpool striker Torres, who swapped Atletico Madrid for Merseyside in £20million move this summer.
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he got 'fed up' with waiting for Spain striker Fernando Torres.
Ferguson has conceded he had been interested in signing Liverpool striker Torres, who swapped Atletico Madrid for Merseyside in £20million move this summer.
"Torres is athletic, he's brave enough and he'll run the channels for them, which he did well in Madrid.
"He's good in the air and has got a physique. He's quicker than you think.
"Over the past few years there has been some interest for us in Torres, but every time he signed a new contract.
BENITEZ ON NEW STADIUM PLANS
Wednesday, 25th July 2007
Rafa Benitez has admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the plans for Liverpool's new stadium.
Liverpool unveiled their plans for a 60,000-seat stadium in Stanley Park early on Wednesday. There is also the potential to expand the stadium to up to 78,000 seats and Benitez is delighted by the design.
"I was surprised with the new stadium because I have seen many in the last few years and they are normally very similar," he told Sky Sports News. "This one is different, it is nice. I think it will be good and the supporters will enjoy the stadium. "Hopefully the players will as well on the pitch."
The club is determined for the atmosphere of the new stadium to be as special as at Anfield and has incorporated an 18,000-capacity, single-tier Kop.
Benitez explained: "They have separated the stands and tried to give value to each one. "I think it was a very good idea to try to keep the tradition and also to try to keep the supporters happy."
Liverpool co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have been key figures in pushing through the ambitious plans for the stadium and Benitez is more than happy with their input so far.
"They have shown from the beginning that they want to improve (the club) and they are doing everything they said, such as money for new players and this stadium," he said. "I think they will be really good for the future of the club."
Liverpool intend to move to the new ground in 2010 and Benitez added: "I hope that I can be on the bench and enjoy a lot of games at this stadium."
Rafa Benitez has admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the plans for Liverpool's new stadium.
Liverpool unveiled their plans for a 60,000-seat stadium in Stanley Park early on Wednesday. There is also the potential to expand the stadium to up to 78,000 seats and Benitez is delighted by the design.
"I was surprised with the new stadium because I have seen many in the last few years and they are normally very similar," he told Sky Sports News. "This one is different, it is nice. I think it will be good and the supporters will enjoy the stadium. "Hopefully the players will as well on the pitch."
The club is determined for the atmosphere of the new stadium to be as special as at Anfield and has incorporated an 18,000-capacity, single-tier Kop.
Benitez explained: "They have separated the stands and tried to give value to each one. "I think it was a very good idea to try to keep the tradition and also to try to keep the supporters happy."
Liverpool co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett have been key figures in pushing through the ambitious plans for the stadium and Benitez is more than happy with their input so far.
"They have shown from the beginning that they want to improve (the club) and they are doing everything they said, such as money for new players and this stadium," he said. "I think they will be really good for the future of the club."
Liverpool intend to move to the new ground in 2010 and Benitez added: "I hope that I can be on the bench and enjoy a lot of games at this stadium."
SOUTH CHINA 1, LIVERPOOL 3
Tuesday, 24th July 2007
LIVERPOOL maintained their one hundred per cent pre-season record with a hard-working 3-1 victory over South China in Hong Kong today.
Goals from John Arne Riise, Xabi Alonso and Daniel Agger secured Rafa Benitez’s side a place in Friday’s Asia Trophy final against Portsmouth.
However, there was disappointment for the legions of Hong Kong fans who were denied a chance to see the club’s multi-million pound new signings due to red tape.
Fernando Torres and Ryan Babel were forced to sit out the game because they’re still awaiting international clearance to play in a Premier League endorsed tournament.
Liverpool were also without skipper Steven Gerrard, who’s nursing a stomach injury.
There was a surprise recall, however, for Harry Kewell who’d joined the squad straight from the Asia Cup in Vietnam.
Riise maintained his impressive summer form with a trademark free-kick on eight minutes.
The Norwegian blasted into the roof of the net from 20 yards, giving keeper Zhang Chunhai no hope.
When Alonso coolly converted a penalty after the tireless Andriy Voronin was dragged down in the box on 27 minutes, a rout looked possible.
But the plucky Hong Kong champions stunned Liverpool with a 40-yard free-kick from skipper Li Haiqiang, embarrassing Scott Carson with a goal reminiscent of Ronaldinho’s against David Seaman in the 2002 World Cup.
The hosts enjoyed much of the possession for an hour as the humid conditions clearly took their toll on Benitez’s side.
The Liverpool boss tried to freshen his team up ten minutes into the second half when Dirk Kuyt and Jermaine Pennant replaced Crouch and Kewell. The changes worked.
Kuyt should have made an instant impact but shot wastefully over the bar after being found by Alvaro Arbeloa’s right wing cross.
Then the Dutchman nearly created a deserved strike for Voronin who headed over Kuyt’s cross from close range on 70 minutes.
Although 95 per cent of the enthusiastic crowd was supporting Liverpool, they displayed signs of fickleness as the game progressed.
Poor Sissoko was given an especially hard time after squandering possession on several occasions, and was eventually subbed for Sami Hyypia, playing an unfamiliar central midfield role.
Liverpool managed to put the game safe with the move of the match on 74 minutes. It was started and finished by Agger, who sent Riise clear on the left after dribbling the ball from defence.
Riise’s cross was neatly teed up for the Dane by Kuyt, and Agger hit an unstoppable left footer to secure Liverpool’s victory.
Kuyt, Voronin and Pennant nearly added goals in the closing stages as the gulf in class grew towards the final whistle.
Liverpool: Carson (Martin 83); Arbeloa, Agger, Carragher, Riise; Benayoun (Finnan 65), Alonso (Threlfall 74), Sissoko (Hyypia 72), Kewell (Pennant 55); Voronin, Crouch (Kuyt 55)
Attendance: 36,801
LIVERPOOL maintained their one hundred per cent pre-season record with a hard-working 3-1 victory over South China in Hong Kong today.
Goals from John Arne Riise, Xabi Alonso and Daniel Agger secured Rafa Benitez’s side a place in Friday’s Asia Trophy final against Portsmouth.
However, there was disappointment for the legions of Hong Kong fans who were denied a chance to see the club’s multi-million pound new signings due to red tape.
Fernando Torres and Ryan Babel were forced to sit out the game because they’re still awaiting international clearance to play in a Premier League endorsed tournament.
Liverpool were also without skipper Steven Gerrard, who’s nursing a stomach injury.
There was a surprise recall, however, for Harry Kewell who’d joined the squad straight from the Asia Cup in Vietnam.
Riise maintained his impressive summer form with a trademark free-kick on eight minutes.
The Norwegian blasted into the roof of the net from 20 yards, giving keeper Zhang Chunhai no hope.
When Alonso coolly converted a penalty after the tireless Andriy Voronin was dragged down in the box on 27 minutes, a rout looked possible.
But the plucky Hong Kong champions stunned Liverpool with a 40-yard free-kick from skipper Li Haiqiang, embarrassing Scott Carson with a goal reminiscent of Ronaldinho’s against David Seaman in the 2002 World Cup.
The hosts enjoyed much of the possession for an hour as the humid conditions clearly took their toll on Benitez’s side.
The Liverpool boss tried to freshen his team up ten minutes into the second half when Dirk Kuyt and Jermaine Pennant replaced Crouch and Kewell. The changes worked.
Kuyt should have made an instant impact but shot wastefully over the bar after being found by Alvaro Arbeloa’s right wing cross.
Then the Dutchman nearly created a deserved strike for Voronin who headed over Kuyt’s cross from close range on 70 minutes.
Although 95 per cent of the enthusiastic crowd was supporting Liverpool, they displayed signs of fickleness as the game progressed.
Poor Sissoko was given an especially hard time after squandering possession on several occasions, and was eventually subbed for Sami Hyypia, playing an unfamiliar central midfield role.
Liverpool managed to put the game safe with the move of the match on 74 minutes. It was started and finished by Agger, who sent Riise clear on the left after dribbling the ball from defence.
Riise’s cross was neatly teed up for the Dane by Kuyt, and Agger hit an unstoppable left footer to secure Liverpool’s victory.
Kuyt, Voronin and Pennant nearly added goals in the closing stages as the gulf in class grew towards the final whistle.
Liverpool: Carson (Martin 83); Arbeloa, Agger, Carragher, Riise; Benayoun (Finnan 65), Alonso (Threlfall 74), Sissoko (Hyypia 72), Kewell (Pennant 55); Voronin, Crouch (Kuyt 55)
Attendance: 36,801
BENITEZ CONFIRMS HEINZE BID
Monday, 23rd July 2007
Rafael Benitez has publicly confirmed his interest in Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze.
Speaking at a press conference in Hong Kong, ahead of Liverpool's first game in the 2007 Barclays Asia Trophy, Benitez announced the club had made an offer for the Argentine international defender.
Manchester United have rejected this offer but the Anfield boss is not giving up on the deal.
"We made an offer which they rejected. The lawyers are now working on it and so we have to wait" Benitez said.
"He's a good player."
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson had earlier refuted claims that Heinze would allowed to leave the club, but the defender has vowed to use the courts to get the move he wants
Rafael Benitez has publicly confirmed his interest in Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze.
Speaking at a press conference in Hong Kong, ahead of Liverpool's first game in the 2007 Barclays Asia Trophy, Benitez announced the club had made an offer for the Argentine international defender.
Manchester United have rejected this offer but the Anfield boss is not giving up on the deal.
"We made an offer which they rejected. The lawyers are now working on it and so we have to wait" Benitez said.
"He's a good player."
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson had earlier refuted claims that Heinze would allowed to leave the club, but the defender has vowed to use the courts to get the move he wants
FOUR WINS OUT OF FOUR FOR REDS
Friday, 20th July 2007
Liverpool's good pre-season form continued as goals from Steven Gerrard and Daniel Agger gave them a 2-0 win over Auxerre.
The Reds made it four wins out of four in pre-season as they comfortably saw off the French side in Switzerland. Gerrard struck on the stroke of half-time before Agger headed home the second from a corner after the break in a fairly uneventful clash.
Liverpool's good pre-season form continued as goals from Steven Gerrard and Daniel Agger gave them a 2-0 win over Auxerre.
The Reds made it four wins out of four in pre-season as they comfortably saw off the French side in Switzerland. Gerrard struck on the stroke of half-time before Agger headed home the second from a corner after the break in a fairly uneventful clash.
Boss Rafa Benitez handed summer signings Yossi Benayoun and Ryan Babel their first starts while Fernando Torres came off the bench at half time and young Bulgarian goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov also made his debut.
Liverpool now go to Hong Kong for the Barclays Asia Trophy and appear in good shape with the start of the Premiership season just over three weeks away.
GABRIEL HEINZE, "SEE YOU IN COURT, FERGIE!"
Friday, 20th July 2007
GABRIEL HEINZE will take his battle to join Liverpool from Manchester United to court.
Sir Alex Ferguson stated yesterday there was no way he would sell the 29-year-old to Liverpool.
However, United will have no choice if Heinze has a get-out clause, and now the defender is preparing to begin legal proceedings demanding his sale.
It’s been widely publicised in recent days Heinze has a letter signed by United chief executive David Gill allowing him to join any club which bids £6m – a valuation Liverpool are prepared to meet.
Despite their protests, it’s understood United did not have the foresight to add the phrase ‘except for Liverpool’ in this document.
Heinze’s representatives are confident of a swift court hearing forcing United to accept a £6m offer made by all interested clubs, including Liverpool.
The Anfield club made a formal bid for the defender which was rejected, but will now take a back seat and watch developments closely over the next few weeks.
Manager Rafa Benitez will want a new left back in his squad before the start of the season.
The capture of Heinze would represent a major coup for Benitez and, given Ferguson’s opposition to the move, would also inflict psychological torment on the United boss.
What’s clear is no matter how much Ferguson claims it won’t happen, the final decision is out of his hands.
GABRIEL HEINZE will take his battle to join Liverpool from Manchester United to court.
Sir Alex Ferguson stated yesterday there was no way he would sell the 29-year-old to Liverpool.
However, United will have no choice if Heinze has a get-out clause, and now the defender is preparing to begin legal proceedings demanding his sale.
It’s been widely publicised in recent days Heinze has a letter signed by United chief executive David Gill allowing him to join any club which bids £6m – a valuation Liverpool are prepared to meet.
Despite their protests, it’s understood United did not have the foresight to add the phrase ‘except for Liverpool’ in this document.
Heinze’s representatives are confident of a swift court hearing forcing United to accept a £6m offer made by all interested clubs, including Liverpool.
The Anfield club made a formal bid for the defender which was rejected, but will now take a back seat and watch developments closely over the next few weeks.
Manager Rafa Benitez will want a new left back in his squad before the start of the season.
The capture of Heinze would represent a major coup for Benitez and, given Ferguson’s opposition to the move, would also inflict psychological torment on the United boss.
What’s clear is no matter how much Ferguson claims it won’t happen, the final decision is out of his hands.
"HEINZE WILL NOT SIGN FOR LIVERPOOL!" SAYS FERGIE
Thursday, 19th July 2007
The Argentinian left-back could have bought out himself from his contract but did not notice the club of this intention within 15 days from the end of the season, therefore now United decide if they wish to sell him.
Sir Alex Ferguson has emphatically insisted that Gabriel Heinze will not be sold to Liverpool.
The Argentine international seems set to leave Old Trafford, but his next destination will not be Anfield after United rejected a £6m bid from Rafael Benitez this week, even though that figure meets the clubs valuation.
The two clubs are bitter rivals and Ferguson is not entertaining the idea of becoming the first manager to sanction a move to Liverpool for the first time in 45 years.
"I can assure you, Liverpool will not be getting Gabriel Heinze," Ferguson told PA Sport.
"We can put that to bed right now and we have done so. We have had a couple offers for him and we have turned them down."
Many clubs from across Europe have also been linked with the 29-year-old, including Spanish champions Real Madrid, but it is unclear if anyone else has made an offer.
Ferguson is not convinced that the left-back is determined to leave the club, but if he was to stay he'd be competing with Patrice Evra for a place in the starting line-up.
"Heinze's agents are rolling the ball all the time," said Ferguson.
"But no matter what his agent thinks, we are in the driving seat.
"I don't exactly know what Gaby thinks because it is all coming from his agent but this has been going on for a year and a half now."
The Argentinian left-back could have bought out himself from his contract but did not notice the club of this intention within 15 days from the end of the season, therefore now United decide if they wish to sell him.
Sir Alex Ferguson has emphatically insisted that Gabriel Heinze will not be sold to Liverpool.
The Argentine international seems set to leave Old Trafford, but his next destination will not be Anfield after United rejected a £6m bid from Rafael Benitez this week, even though that figure meets the clubs valuation.
The two clubs are bitter rivals and Ferguson is not entertaining the idea of becoming the first manager to sanction a move to Liverpool for the first time in 45 years.
"I can assure you, Liverpool will not be getting Gabriel Heinze," Ferguson told PA Sport.
"We can put that to bed right now and we have done so. We have had a couple offers for him and we have turned them down."
Many clubs from across Europe have also been linked with the 29-year-old, including Spanish champions Real Madrid, but it is unclear if anyone else has made an offer.
Ferguson is not convinced that the left-back is determined to leave the club, but if he was to stay he'd be competing with Patrice Evra for a place in the starting line-up.
"Heinze's agents are rolling the ball all the time," said Ferguson.
"But no matter what his agent thinks, we are in the driving seat.
"I don't exactly know what Gaby thinks because it is all coming from his agent but this has been going on for a year and a half now."
VORONIN SHINES ON REDS DEBUT
Tuesday, 17th July 2007
UKRAINE striker Andriy Voronin scored twice to shine on his Liverpool debut as the English Premier League side defeated German Bundesliga team Werder Bremen 3-2 in a pre-season match.
Voronin, 27, who signed a four-year deal to moveh from Bayer Leverkusen to play for Rafael Benitez's team, scored once in each half and was a constant threat to the Bremen defence.
Liverpool, the 2005 European Cup winner and the losing finalist this year, warmed up for the match in Grenchen, Switzerland, with two friendly wins over British minnows Wrexham (3-2) and Crewe (3-0).
Benitez also debuted to striker Fernando Torres, signed from Atletico Madrid, and midfield player Ryan Babel, from Ajax Amsterdam.
The game got off to a lively start when Voronin intercepted a pass and rounded Bremen goalkeeper Tim Weise to give the Reds a lead after just three minutes.
But Bremen was level three minutes later, when a shot clipped the post and forward Kevin Schindler headed home.
Liverpool's Norway midfield player John Arne Riise put the visitors ahead with a long-range free-kick just seven minutes later.
Voronin then clipped the crossbar with a shot early in the second half, but he made no mistake with a well-struck shot on 61 minutes.
The Ukrainian made way for Torres to make his debut soon afterwards, and Bremen pulled a late goal back when substitute Frank Loening saw his shot deflected into the net by Liverpool's Stephen Darby on 81 minutes.
Agence France-Presse
UKRAINE striker Andriy Voronin scored twice to shine on his Liverpool debut as the English Premier League side defeated German Bundesliga team Werder Bremen 3-2 in a pre-season match.
Voronin, 27, who signed a four-year deal to moveh from Bayer Leverkusen to play for Rafael Benitez's team, scored once in each half and was a constant threat to the Bremen defence.
Liverpool, the 2005 European Cup winner and the losing finalist this year, warmed up for the match in Grenchen, Switzerland, with two friendly wins over British minnows Wrexham (3-2) and Crewe (3-0).
Benitez also debuted to striker Fernando Torres, signed from Atletico Madrid, and midfield player Ryan Babel, from Ajax Amsterdam.
The game got off to a lively start when Voronin intercepted a pass and rounded Bremen goalkeeper Tim Weise to give the Reds a lead after just three minutes.
But Bremen was level three minutes later, when a shot clipped the post and forward Kevin Schindler headed home.
Liverpool's Norway midfield player John Arne Riise put the visitors ahead with a long-range free-kick just seven minutes later.
Voronin then clipped the crossbar with a shot early in the second half, but he made no mistake with a well-struck shot on 61 minutes.
The Ukrainian made way for Torres to make his debut soon afterwards, and Bremen pulled a late goal back when substitute Frank Loening saw his shot deflected into the net by Liverpool's Stephen Darby on 81 minutes.
Agence France-Presse
TORRES MAY HAVE TO WAIT FOR LIVERPOOL DEBUT
Tuesday, 17th July 2007
FERNANDO TORRES may have to wait for his Liverpool debut as Rafa Benitez eases his record signing into senior action.
Torres is pencilled in for his first appearance in a red shirt against Werder Bremen tonight, but Benitez says if the striker plays, it is only likely to be as a late sub in Switzerland.
Torres has recently recovered from an ankle injury, and having started training later than most of his team-mates, Benitez sees little point in taking risks.
FERNANDO TORRES may have to wait for his Liverpool debut as Rafa Benitez eases his record signing into senior action.
Torres is pencilled in for his first appearance in a red shirt against Werder Bremen tonight, but Benitez says if the striker plays, it is only likely to be as a late sub in Switzerland.
Torres has recently recovered from an ankle injury, and having started training later than most of his team-mates, Benitez sees little point in taking risks.
TORRES TO MAKE BOW
Monday, 16th July 2007
Liverpool's record £20 million signing Fernando Torres is set to make his debut for his new club in a pre-season friendly in Switzerland on Tuesday.
The former Atletico Madrid striker, who has moved to Anfield on a six year contract, is expected to shake off a slight ankle injury and face Werder Bremen in Grenchen.
Manager Rafael Benitez said on Monday: "We had to wait for Fernando because he started training after the other players.
"We also needed to check his ankle but I think he'll be okay for our next game."
Torres could link up with new acquisitions Ryan Babel, Yossi Benayoun and former Bayer Leverkusen striker Andriy Voronin. The Ukrainian marked his first start of the club with a fine display in the defeat of Crewe on Saturday in a friendly.
Benitez said: "We know that Voronin is going to be another option for us. He has good game intelligence, he plays well between the lines and he has a lot of quality."
Liverpool's record £20 million signing Fernando Torres is set to make his debut for his new club in a pre-season friendly in Switzerland on Tuesday.
The former Atletico Madrid striker, who has moved to Anfield on a six year contract, is expected to shake off a slight ankle injury and face Werder Bremen in Grenchen.
Manager Rafael Benitez said on Monday: "We had to wait for Fernando because he started training after the other players.
"We also needed to check his ankle but I think he'll be okay for our next game."
Torres could link up with new acquisitions Ryan Babel, Yossi Benayoun and former Bayer Leverkusen striker Andriy Voronin. The Ukrainian marked his first start of the club with a fine display in the defeat of Crewe on Saturday in a friendly.
Benitez said: "We know that Voronin is going to be another option for us. He has good game intelligence, he plays well between the lines and he has a lot of quality."
Rafa Benitez & Fernando Torres
Andriy Voronin
Ryan Babel, Rafa Benitez & Yossi Benayoun
GENERAL LIVERPOOL FANSITES
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Red and White Kop - You're already here!
Reds-Online Liverpool forum. Nice group of friendly members good chat open to guests
Shankly Gates - Well established LFC Rivals site
Six Crazy Minutes - up and coming set of forums, with some top, top posters.
TalkLFC - Offers News & Forums
The Road End - Friendliest of LFC forums.
This Is Anfield - Polished site offering News & Forums
Through The Wind And Rain - Site & Forum of venerable fanzine edited by Steve Kelly.
XtraTime LFC Forum - very busy LFC forum and part of the much larger XtraTime community.
You'll Never Walk Alone - Excellent site offering News & Forums
Zigackley's Liverpool blog
A Liverpool Thing
Anfield Road - Site offers News & a forum
The Bootroom.Org
Champions of Europe
The Corner at Anfield - Vibrant young forum
est1892 Forum including match clips, highlights & goals, some can be downloaded
Football Info LFC forum
Fortress Anfield
It's a Scouse thing - Fantastic archive of classic posts.
Kopites.net
LFC 365
Liverpool FC Bootroom
LFC-Forum.com home of the LFC-WAP-Forum chat with other fans and get up to date news and stats, all on your mobile phone!
LFC4Lifefriendly, good football debate mixed with banter. Members from all over the world offers highlights and videos to members over 25 posts
LFCHistory.net - and what a history it is!
LFC Online - Popular site with News & Forums
LFC Post - News feed service gathering all LFC news in one place.
LFC Stats
Liverbird upon my chest
Liverpool are magic consists of a collection of Liverpool Football Club animations, wallpapers and images which can be downloaded and used as avatars on forums and message boards or mobile phone screensavers and wallpapers.
The Liverpool FC forum Friendly and newcomers welcomed
LFC Fans Forum
Liverpoolfootballzone
Liverpool Kits - Michael Yip's outstanding non commercial site looking at the evolution of our kits.
The Liverpool Way - Dave Usher's fanzine site & forum.
Liverweb - Great site offering stats and facts.
Nfield.co.uk - Dirty Dan's Liverpool themed blog
One Night in May - fansite offering news,views and even a chelsea 2005 section talk about rubbing money in Russain noses
On The Kop - New site by Evo and Mooro, forums and news
Rafas Red Men A welcoming and friendly fansite with popular forum and lots of good banter.
Also links to streams, live radio and much much more!
Reclaim The Kop - Website for new campaign to bring the atmosphere back to Anfield.
Red All Over The Land - Site & forums of popular fanzine edited by John Pearman.
RedChill
Red and White Kop - You're already here!
Reds-Online Liverpool forum. Nice group of friendly members good chat open to guests
Shankly Gates - Well established LFC Rivals site
Six Crazy Minutes - up and coming set of forums, with some top, top posters.
TalkLFC - Offers News & Forums
The Road End - Friendliest of LFC forums.
This Is Anfield - Polished site offering News & Forums
Through The Wind And Rain - Site & Forum of venerable fanzine edited by Steve Kelly.
XtraTime LFC Forum - very busy LFC forum and part of the much larger XtraTime community.
You'll Never Walk Alone - Excellent site offering News & Forums
Zigackley's Liverpool blog
THE TERRORISTS
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